2013 Abadia Retuerta Pago Garduna Syrah Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y Leon

Initially this Sryah from a cool tough vintage smells entirely of charred oak and related wood resin, although with time the oak subsides and herbal saucy berry notes take over. Tannic and thick on the palate, this tastes of savory spicy oaky black fruits, while oak-based clove and mint do a reprise on the finish. Drink through 2021. MICHAEL SCHACHNER